Beyond Shark Tanks!

Most of us feel calm looking at blue spaces, but what exactly happens when we are exposed or walk near water, ocean or aquariums? Blue space has the effect to switch off our busy brains, which focus on thousands of thoughts, and shift the brain into a relaxed mode. Hence, directly influencing our well-being in a positive way. Neuro-scientists and psychologists have proven that looking at water will directly inspire humans to open up to creative thoughts and give us a mental boost.

An academic study by the National Marine Aquarium, Plymouth University and the University of Exeter proved that watching the fish swim around led to noticeable reductions in blood pressure and heart rate in addition to improving people’s moods.

For one of Al Qana’s purpose is to improve the quality of life of Abu Dhabi’s residents and bring happiness to its visitors, we are introducing the National Aquarium as one of our flagship destinations. Abu Dhabi and the UAE will get to enjoy the gems of the ocean under the longest water tunnel with over 250 species of fish, birds, amphibians, arachnids and reptiles. We will welcome our guests to a unique journey to learn about species spanning from the tropical waters of the Pacific and freshwaters of the Amazon through to the frozen ice caps of the Arctic and the caves of the Mediterranean.

According to scientists, sharks are older than dinosaurs as they have been around for hundreds of millions of years. Sharks role in the ocean is beyond scaring humans. Sharks play a vital role in the ocean ecosystem by maintaining the species below them in the food chain. For example, sharks tend to eat very efficiently and eliminate the old, sick, or slower fish in the ocean population that they prey upon. If we eliminate sharks, the marine ecosystem will lose its balance and we will not have a diversified population. Throughout the ten zones of the National Aquarium in Al Qana, we will take you on a trip to the River Shark where you will get to learn about more than 100 species of sharks from around the world inside the tank. Al Qana will give you a chance to enjoy over 60 exhibitions, interactive underwater shows, and live scuba diving feeding sessions in addition to the opportunity to dive into the underwater world.

The National Aquarium will be led by a world-class team of 80 qualified marine experts and specialists. Through themed zones of learning, the journey will highlight the conservation required to protect the planet. We will educate you about the UAE and Arabian Gulf while celebrating the marine marvels of its home nation. Additionally, we will have a whole department dedicated to education and capacity to welcome 50,000 schoolchildren a year to visit and learn at Al Qana.